Passaic, N.J. – On Sunday, April 2, 2023, Mayor Hector C. Lora joined the 150th Anniversary Committee, City leaders, and local community members to commemorate the 150th anniversary year of the City of Passaic. The celebration took place at Passaic City Hall from 3pm to 5pm, where the city's flag was raised for the very first time.
“In 150 years, the thing that we have learned the most is to come together and work together. Let’s work to the common goal of making this the best city that it could ever be. Where it doesn’t matter where you come from, only where you’re going. Standing together, united, and determined to make Passaic better. That’s why we’re here today and tomorrow and day after day after day so that all of us can be equally as proud of that which the city is doing.” Said City Council President Gary Schaer.
“Passaic is booming. This is what urban renewal is all about. Passaic has every restaurant you can possible want to eat at, coffee shops, places where people can shop. You have stores in Passaic that sell just about anything with quality products.” Said Commissioner of the County, Bruce James. “I was stunned by the construction that was going on for housing in Passaic, giving the opportunity for people to have some place to live in a city that’s walkable.”
During the event, Mayor Lora introduced Justin Ellen and highlighted his entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic efforts, stating that it was inspiring to see a young individual give back to their community. Mayor Lora expressed his gratitude towards Justin for his contributions to the city and his commitment to making a positive impact.
“I, Hector C. Lora, the Mayor of the City of Passaic, along with our City Council President and all of us in the City of Passaic, recognize Justin Ellen, Owner of “Everything just Baked” during Passaic 150th Anniversary for his determination and perseverance that serve as a reminder that with hard work and a strong passion, anything is possible. Because you have chosen to become an ambassador of our city, lifting our city up high, we wanted to together declare Justin, you are Passaic.” Announced Mayor Lora.
“Everything that happened was because I put myself out there and I remembered my roots. I give back when I can. I want to be an inspiration to all entrepreneurs. You can do it, you’re not too old, you’re not too young. If you can dream it, you can do it, just put in the work, and I’m proof of that.” Said Owner of “Everything Just Baked” Justin Ellen, a Passaic native, who crafted the 150th Anniversary Birthday Cake.
Mayor Lora recited the original Act of incorporation for the City of Passaic, which emphasized the city’s historic origins and values. Then followed was the first-ever Passaic flag-raising ceremony. The festivities were made even more enjoyable with sweet treats, music and a DJ, which added to the celebratory atmosphere. Overall, it was a great way to showcase civic pride and honor the city's rich history and founding principles.
Highlighting the City's Rich Cultural Heritage and Diversity
Passaic, N.J. – On Sunday, April 2, 2023, Mayor Hector C. Lora joined the 150th Anniversary Committee, City leaders, and local community members to commemorate the 150th anniversary year of the City of Passaic. The celebration took place at Passaic City Hall from 3pm to 5pm, where the city's flag was raised for the very first time.
“In 150 years, the thing that we have learned the most is to come together and work together. Let’s work to the common goal of making this the best city that it could ever be. Where it doesn’t matter where you come from, only where you’re going. Standing together, united, and determined to make Passaic better. That’s why we’re here today and tomorrow and day after day after day so that all of us can be equally as proud of that which the city is doing.” Said City Council President Gary Schaer.
“Passaic is booming. This is what urban renewal is all about. Passaic has every restaurant you can possible want to eat at, coffee shops, places where people can shop. You have stores in Passaic that sell just about anything with quality products.” Said Commissioner of the County, Bruce James. “I was stunned by the construction that was going on for housing in Passaic, giving the opportunity for people to have some place to live in a city that’s walkable.”
During the event, Mayor Lora introduced Justin Ellen and highlighted his entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic efforts, stating that it was inspiring to see a young individual give back to their community. Mayor Lora expressed his gratitude towards Justin for his contributions to the city and his commitment to making a positive impact.
“I, Hector C. Lora, the Mayor of the City of Passaic, along with our City Council President and all of us in the City of Passaic, recognize Justin Ellen, Owner of “Everything just Baked” during Passaic 150th Anniversary for his determination and perseverance that serve as a reminder that with hard work and a strong passion, anything is possible. Because you have chosen to become an ambassador of our city, lifting our city up high, we wanted to together declare Justin, you are Passaic.” Announced Mayor Lora.
“Everything that happened was because I put myself out there and I remembered my roots. I give back when I can. I want to be an inspiration to all entrepreneurs. You can do it, you’re not too old, you’re not too young. If you can dream it, you can do it, just put in the work, and I’m proof of that.” Said Owner of “Everything Just Baked” Justin Ellen, a Passaic native, who crafted the 150th Anniversary Birthday Cake.
Mayor Lora recited the original Act of incorporation for the City of Passaic, which emphasized the city’s historic origins and values. Then followed was the first-ever Passaic flag-raising ceremony. The festivities were made even more enjoyable with sweet treats, music and a DJ, which added to the celebratory atmosphere. Overall, it was a great way to showcase civic pride and honor the city's rich history and founding principles.